ISKCON Launches First International University In Vrindavan Focused On Bhagavad Geeta

ISKCON is taking a significant step forward by establishing its first international university in Vrindavan, aiming to disseminate the teachings of the Bhagavad Geeta and Sanatan Dharma. This announcement was made by Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Yogendra Upadhyay, who holds the portfolio of Higher Education in the state. During a press interaction at the Gurukul, ISKCON Vrindavan, Upadhyay expressed his view that this university would play a critical role in shaping the future of the country. "The first university of ISKCON will become the future of the country," Upadhyay said, emphasizing the transformative potential of this educational initiative. He highlighted the long-standing tradition of ISKCON in propagating the teachings of Lord Krishna, as established by late Bhaktivedan Swami and his followers. The minister further drew parallels between the proposed university and the historic Nalanda University, which was a beacon of learning, catering to thousands of students over a millennium ago. He pointed out, "The proposed university will reach the heights of the Nalanda University, which catered to 10 thousand students over a thousand years ago."

The establishment of this university is not just about imparting education; it's also about preserving India's rich cultural heritage. "The basic culture of India will remain protected by developing Sanskrit and 'sanskriti' (culture)," Upadhyay remarked, underlining the integral role the university will play in sustaining the cultural and spiritual fabric of India.

On the occasion, ISKCON Vrindavan PRO Pawan Dubey welcomed the minister and shared insights into the vision behind the university. "We are going to develop the first university of ISKCON in Vrindavan. It will be based on our ancient culture, 'sanskriti' and Sanskrit," Dubey said. This statement reaffirms the university's commitment to root its curriculum and ethos in the profound spiritual and cultural traditions of India.

The initiative to establish an ISKCON university in Vrindavan dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Geeta and Sanatan Dharma marks a significant milestone in the efforts to preserve and promote India's ancient wisdom and spiritual heritage. As the project unfolds, it is poised to become a pivotal institution for spiritual and cultural education, reminiscent of the glory of Nalanda University, and a guardian of India's 'sanskriti' and Sanskrit.